Omega-3 fatty acids or fish oil are commonly found in fishes and it is called EPA and DHA. Aside from fish, you can also found omega-3 fatty acids in nuts and seeds known as ALA (alpha-linolenic acid). It is very important for the body because of its powerful benefit for the brain. Fish oil is commonly consumed as dietary supplements. The benefits of omega 3 can provide enough protection for the body against many chronic diseases. Foods high in omega 3 are mackerel, salmon, cod liver oil, sardines, anchovies, nuts, seeds, and many more.
1. Can Reduce Symptoms of ADHD in Children
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a disorder that usually occurs in children. This behavioral disorder shows symptoms such as inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity in children. Benefits of omega 3 are connected to the reduction of symptoms of ADHD in children. It can reduce the severity of impulsiveness and hyperactivity aggression in children.
2. Can Fight Age-Related Mental Decline and Alzheimer’s Disease
Age-related mental decline and Alzheimer’s disease is a common disease of the older adult. As people age, the brain and its function decrease overtime. Many studies recommend that a higher intake of omega-3 fatty acids can reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and decrease age-related mental decline. Foods high in omega 3 can help to prevent several mental disorders.
3. It can help to Prevent Cancer
Cancer is one of the deadliest diseases now so cancer patient needs to develop a healthy body. The benefits of Omega 3 can reduce the risk of developing certain types of cancer. There is a study that shows that there is a 55% lower risk of colon cancer by simply consuming foods that contain Omega 3. It can also reduce the risk of breast cancer in women and prostate cancer in men.
4. May Support Eye Health
Omega 3 fatty acids benefit the eyes and brain. Fish oil benefits can reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration in old age. There is a study conducted in AMD patients and it shows that consuming a high dose of fish oil for 19 weeks improves their vision.
5. May Support Pregnancy and Early Life
Omega 3 fatty acids are important in infant early growth and development. Fish oil benefits can improve hand-eye coordination both in mothers and infants. Taking fish oil supplements during pregnancy and breastfeeding can benefit infant visual development and reduce the risk of allergies
6. Improve Bone Health
One of the common signs of aging is related to decrease bone health. Aging makes the bone brittle making it easy to break because of the decrease absorption of calcium and other essential nutrients. One of the benefits of omega 3 is it can improve bone health. Increase intake of omega 3 or fish oil supplements is associated with higher bone density for adults.
7. Can Improve Risk Factors for Heart Disease
Omega 3 fatty acids are known and proven effective in promoting heart health. Adding benefits of omega 3 in the diet can reduce blood pressure levels, raise the HDL or good cholesterol in the body, keep blood platelets from clumping together, and reduce the production of substances related to the inflammatory response.
8. Can Reduce Symptoms of Metabolic Syndrome
Metabolic syndrome is a combination of obesity, hypertension, and diabetes. These conditions can lead to the development of coronary heart disease and stroke. Foods high in omega 3 can improve several heart diseases, reduce insulin resistance, and fight inflammation.
9. Can Reduce Asthma Symptoms and Allergy Risk
Fish oil benefits can reduce bout of asthma symptoms. Infants and children have a higher risk of acquiring asthma. It is characterized by swelling in the lungs and shortness of breath. There is a study that shows fish oil supplement intake of the mother during pregnancy can reduce the risk of asthma in infants.
10. Improve Mental Health
Mental decline is seen with people who have a low level of omega-3 fatty acids. Several studies found out that taking an omega-3 supplement can decrease the severity and occurrence of mood swings as well as relapse in patients with bipolar and schizophrenia disorder. Also, supplementation showed a significant decline in their violent behaviors compared to patients who do not take the same supplement.
